Because of the
problems with the Stainless Banner, the Third National Flag, was designed by an
artilleryman, Major Arthur L. Rogers. According to Rogers, the white symbolized
purity and innocence, and the red fortitude and courage. The cross of St. Andrew
indicated descent from British stock, and the red bar was taken from the French
flag, as many Southern were descended from French stock. The bill to change the
flag was signed into law on 4 March 1865. The National Flag of the Confederacy
was changed by the Confederate Congress on March 8, 1865.